Recent content by harley metisse

Hi all, I am in the UK, does anyone have a spare TX650 tank ? I would consider importing one from the USA, but I don't know what the import charges would be. Thanks

Hi again, is there any of these rims lurking in barns/sheds that might be available ? Thanks

Hi all, I am in the UK, and I would like to purchase a pair of the standard, flanged Takasago alloy rims if anyone out there has a spare pair.... I mentioned the location as the UK because I am not sure on shipping/postage costs from the US or Europe. Fingers crossed. Thanks

Hi all, a question if I may ask. Will the early tx650 fuel tank, the metallic blue with the gold flash paintwork model year type, fit onto a European XS2 ? By that I mean are the front mounts in the same position etc ? My xs2 project came to me without a fuel tank and the last couple of xs2's I...

Hi, yes Howard has sold the business, the new owner is Rick Forte, and he is very approachable. Not gone down the 840 route as yet, but I have some ideas on what to do......watch this space.

Hi all, I have decided to sell on my newly restored XS650B. Pretty much everything has been renewed or replaced, in excellent condition. It has only covered 5927 miles and is tax and MOT exempt in the UK. I am in the UK, if interested, message me etc.

Thanks for the quick reply - but can you explain ? Am I correct in thinking a set-up from a newer XS, for instance from a 1982/83 version would fit on a 1977 bike and work OK ? How would I tell the difference from looking at them when they are on the workshop bench ?

Hi all, a quick question - is there any actual difference in the standard generator and stator set up from the points ignition xs's and the electronic ignition bikes ? Cheers

My thoughts..................as well. I am likely to go a little soft if our summer European adventures are going to be lengthy (the last one was over 3500 miles in 15 days), so I may buy a cheap Yam Fazer 1000......... Back to the next project though - has anybody done one of these 840 or 880...

I don't disagree with you, I'm just a little bit stubborn at times I guess. I'm not expecting anything that fast, just something that will surprise people sometimes. I've been through the normal VFR, GSXR 1000, R1200GS, KTM 950SM, Z1000SX etc etc and even a BMW Megamoto HP2, so new faster bikes...

My intention is to build a bigger bore XS, but it needs to be reliable, it will be used for weekend trips and holidays as well as general use around here locally in Cornwall. I have a standard 1975 XS650B that I have just restored so the next project is to build what I would call a "hot rod"...

Hi Hotdog, thanks for the message, I have to admit that I thought that the 880cc motor came from using XT500 pistons and the crank from the 533 series engine. It would be good news if those pistons will work in the "shorter stroke" 447 engine. I have read the french website and it is interesting...

Thanks for the "UK" based info, i have emailed Heiden and await their reply and have had several emails from Howard at Smedspeed, who seems very wise and knowledgeable on this topic. However, having a 447 motor, with, I understand, shorter conrods, I might have a problem.......damn. Someone has...

Hi all, I'm new to this forum, but have rebuilt more than a few xs650's over the years, all back to standard though. My query is this - what is the story with going up to a 840cc engine size ? Tony Hall of Halco was the guru on this, but alas that avenue is now closed, so who else knows about...

Hi all, I am looking to buy an early 650, first choice would be a XS!. Condition, not too fussy, what have you got ? Anything out there ? Cheers